Beth Runkle
Aug 21st, 2024
1
min read
Updated:
Nov 12th, 2025
Insider Installation Guides

Insider Guide to Fort Liberty (Fayetteville, NC):

Fort Liberty, Fayatteville, NC
Fort Liberty, Fayatteville, NC

Fort Liberty (formerly known as Fort Bragg) is the home of the Airborne and Special Operations Forces and includes the Special Warfare Center and School (aka “Swick”). Here's hoping this insider guide to Fort Liberty (Fayetteville and Spring Lake, NC) will help ease your transition to this new assignment. Read on for all the insider tips, favorites, and local gems.

 

Churches near Fort Liberty:

 

Manna Church is a Christian congregation focused on fostering community and spiritual growth through dynamic worship and practical teaching. It aims to guide individuals in their faith journey and empower them to make a positive impact in their world.

 

·      Spring Lake Campus

·      Fayetteville Campus – Main Campus and several Satellite campuses

 

Liberty Church, Spring Lake is a vibrant community that emphasizes a relationship with Jesus and practical application of Biblical teachings. They strive to create a welcoming environment where people can explore faith and experience transformative growth.

Raven Rock State Park near Fort Liberty

Recreation Near Fort Liberty, NC:

 

Raven Rock State Park

Raven Rock State Park features stunning natural landscapes including dramatic rock formations, lush forests, and scenic trails. The park offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cape Fear Botanical Garden near Fort Liberty
Cape Fear Botanical Garden

Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a picturesque haven that highlights regional plant species and stunning garden displays. It provides a peaceful retreat with its thoughtfully designed landscapes, educational programs, and seasonal events.

 

Cape Fear River Trail offers picturesque scenery and a trail the covers five miles through lush woods and along the titular river.  Suitable for a walk, hard run, or a bike ride.

At the Triangle Rock Club in Fayetteville, climbers can enjoy 8,500 square feet of climbing surface, including top roping, lead climbing, auto-belays, and top-out bouldering. They also provide 2,000 square feet of dedicated space for fitness and yoga. Climbers of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds are encouraged to visit through several local Meetup groups.

Aloha Safari Park near Fort Liberty
Aloha Safari Park

Fayetteville Woodpeckers Baseball Games.  The Fayetteville Woodpeckers are a minor league baseball team playing in the Carolina League. They offer exciting, family-friendly games and community events at their home field, Segra Stadium. They are affiliated with the Houston Astros.

82nd Airborne Museum Fort Liberty
82nd Airborne Museum

The 82nd Airborne Museum and War Memorial details the division back to its beginnings at the end of WWII.

 

The U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum offers amazing exhibits that showcase the brave men and women who have earned jump wings and Green Berets.

Fascinate-U Children's Museum near Fort Liberty

The Fascinate-U Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum which allows kids to learn science firsthand.

 

Recreation - Day Trips near Fort Liberty:

 

 

Raleigh offers several free museums and activities.

·      The North Carolina Museum of Art, which was established in 1947, is situated in Raleigh. The museum officially opened its doors to the public on April 6, 1956. This historical establishment has been a significant part of the city's cultural scene for many decades.

North Carolina Museum of History
North Carolina Museum of History

·      The North Carolina Museum of History, situated in downtown Raleigh, is a significant historical institution that is affiliated with the Smithsonian Affiliations program. This affiliation allows the museum to share resources and collaborate with the Smithsonian Institution, enhancing the museum's offerings and providing visitors with a rich and diverse experience.

·      The JC Raulston Arboretum, a 10-acre arboretum and botanical garden, is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is administered by North Carolina State University. This vast space is home to a variety of plant species and offers a serene environment for visitors.

 

Shop the historic district of Southern Pines on Broad Street between Connecticut and Indiana, on both sides of the railroad tracks. Trees, flowers and courtyards grace the specialty shops, galleries and cafes for a lovely village atmosphere.

 

Restaurants:

Antonella's Italian Restaurant serves Southern and Northern Italian Cuisine. They take pride in providing their patrons with a wonderful dining experience. Specialties include fresh pasta dishes, flatbread pizzas, salads, soups, and seafood. The signature specialties include chicken a la Giovanni and chicken or veal parmigiana.

Circa 1800 in Fayetteville, NC, is a charming restaurant that offers a refined dining experience with a focus on Southern-inspired cuisine. Set in a historic building, it combines elegant decor with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.

 

Alpaca Chicken is a vibrant restaurant specializing in Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, renowned for its flavorful, marinated meats and delicious side dishes. The casual, inviting atmosphere complements its focus on authentic, fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

 

Veterinarian:

River Bark Veterinarian offers multiple locations in the Fayatteville, Spring Lake area.

 

Dentist:

Spring Lake Dental Group

Firehouse Kid’s Dentistry, Spring Lake

 

What’s the best part about living there? 

Although Fayetteville may have a negative connotation, there are hidden gems. Additionally, your family can be at the beach or a major city within a few hours for a quick weekend vacation.

I was a military spouse for 25 years and now blog to help other military families embrace the lifestyle and their calling. To learn more about me read here. 

I'm releasing a book for military spouses called Another Move, God? 30 Encouragements for Embracing Your Life as a Military Wife.  Read more about the book and order your copy today.

Thanks to Ashley Higgins for helping me create this guide!

What would you add to this list?

 

Recent Posts

See All
Beth Runkle
Jun 19th, 2025
2
min read
Faith in a Military Life

To THRIVE Instead of Just Survive, Replace Fear with Faith

I know with current events and more troops deploying, you military spouse, may be overwhelmed with fear. To thrive instead of survive as a military wife, you must replace fear with faith.
To THRIVE Instead of Just Survive, Replace Fear with Faith
Beth Runkle
Mar 29th, 2025
1
min read
Faith in a Military Life

The Model Prayer - Using the Lord's Prayer to Guide Your Communication with God

This post explains the true purpose of prayer and how Jesus modeled it during His ministry. Using the P-R-A-Y framework Praise, Repent, Ask, and Yield—it breaks down the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13) into practical steps for daily prayer and deeper connection with God.
The Model Prayer - Using the Lord's Prayer to Guide Your Communication with God
Beth Runkle
Mar 29th, 2025
2
min read
Faith in a Military Life

How to Boost Your Prayer Life: 10 Creative Techniques to Try

How are we supposed to pray without ceasing, according to 1 Thessalonians 5:17?
How to Boost Your Prayer Life: 10 Creative Techniques to Try